At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in electronic systems and software, driving technology for the future.
- Company: Join James Fisher, a global leader in engineering services with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, car allowance, private medical insurance, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible remote work with travel opportunities and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cutting-edge technology and contribute to global operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or category management within tech environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Group Category Manager – Electronic Systems & Software
Full-Time, Permanent
UK, Remote with travel
About the Role
The Role
Drive the technology behind tomorrow’s innovations.
As Group Category Manager - Electronic Systems & Software, you’ll lead a portfolio spanning software, advanced electronics, embedded systems and digital technologies.
Partnering with Engineering, Product Development and IT teams, you’ll build the supplier ecosystem that powers next-generation AI-enabled solutions, delivering commercial value, innovation and lasting impact across James Fisher and Sons.
The role can be based anywhere in the UK and will require national as well as occasional internation travel.
What you’ll be doing
- Develop and deliver the Group Electronic Systems & Software category strategy with a clear roadmap for supplier, contract and commercial improvements.
- Consolidate and optimise the supplier base, reducing complexity and improving commercial outcomes.
- Strengthen contract management by renewing, standardising and enhancing key supplier agreements.
- Establish robust supplier relationship management (SRM) frameworks, driving performance and accountability.
- Partner with Engineering, Product Development and Defence teams to anticipate future technology requirements and build a capable, future-ready supply base.
- Engage key stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business objectives and technology roadmaps.
- Deliver measurable cost savings, value improvements and supply chain efficiencies.
- Ensure procurement activity complies with Group policies, governance standards and delegated authorities.
What we’re looking for
- Experience in procurement, category management or commercial roles within technology, software or engineering environments.
- Strong contract negotiation skills, including software licences, Saa S and technology agreements.
- Proven ability to develop category strategies, optimise supplier bases and deliver commercial value.
- Skilled at influencing stakeholders across Engineering, IT, Finance and Legal functions.
- Experience aligning procurement activity with technology roadmaps and future business needs.
- Knowledge of advanced electronics, embedded software or defence-related supply chains is desirable.
- Degree educated, with CIPS and/or World Commerce & Contracting qualifications desirable.
Why join us?
- Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with experience (Car Allowance, Private Medical Insurance, Life Assurance, Cycle to work scheme, Company Pension, etc.)
- Clear pathways for career development and organisational visibility.
- Inclusive and supportive culture that values individual contributions.
- Meaningful work with impact across safety, innovation, and global operations.
About Us
James Fisher is a global engineering services company with over 50 years of experience delivering complex offshore energy projects in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
We operate across Energy, Defence, and Maritime Transport, leveraging cutting‑edge technology and deep expertise to support the full lifecycle of our customers’ assets.
Our One James Fisher strategy unites our capabilities under a single vision, building a stronger, more cohesive business within the Blue Economy.
Visit our website at: Home | James Fisher and Sons plc
For more information about our values and behaviours, follow the link: About us | James Fisher and Sons plc
Due to the volume of applications, we receive for our vacancies, on occasion applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
At James Fisher and Sons, we are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce.
To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida.
You can learn more about our approach by visiting our company page: James Fisher and Sons diversity, inclusion, culture - VERCIDA
Group Category Manager - Electronic Systems and Software in Barrow in Furness employer: James Fisher & Sons PLC
James Fisher & Sons PLC offers a dynamic work environment where employees can engage in innovative projects, particularly in the fields of electronic systems and software. The company emphasizes professional growth through hands-on experience and collaboration with experienced teams, providing opportunities to develop skills in engineering and manufacturing. With a focus on delivering commercial value and innovation, James Fisher & Sons fosters a culture of continuous improvement and strong supplier relationships.
Contact Details:
James Fisher & Sons PLC Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Category Manager - Electronic Systems and Software in Barrow in Furness
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like James Fisher & Sons PLC.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Category Manager - Electronic Systems and Software in Barrow in Furness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to James Fisher & Sons PLC:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to James Fisher & Sons PLC. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like James Fisher & Sons PLC.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher & Sons PLC
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at James Fisher & Sons PLC!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at James Fisher & Sons PLC. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into James Fisher & Sons PLC's culture.
